Trainer Darren Wilson discusses Nathan Cleverly retiring from boxing and what lies ahead
Pontypridd's Darren Wilson has established himself as a mainstay of Welsh boxing, not only guiding Nathan Cleverly to a second world title but also working with a budding stable of fighters in the Cardiff region.
Cleverly made the decision to retire after losing to the excellent Las Vegas based Swede Badou Jack in August. Wilson, who worked with Cleverly in different capacities for the majority of the two-time world champion's career, gave his thoughts on Cleverly's career and decision to retire.
He said, "I loved working with Nathan and it was a pleasure to train such a great fighter and being able to win a World title with him was vindication of years of hard work paying off."
The South Wales based trainer continued, "I think it was the right time for Nathan to retire, he's had a fantastic career and he's financially secure. He achieved his dream at 24 and then did it all over again years later. There was no need to carry on for him."
Wilson has his own stable of fighters emerging on the South Wales boxing scene. The likeable Welshman elaborated on his current stable.
He stated, "I worked with Jamie Arthur when he won the Commonwealth title and former European Champion Jason Cook as well as Nathan.
"I'm currently training Jamie 'JJ' Evans who's 5-0. He was a World class amateur and I'm really excited about him and Jermaine Asare who medals at the Delhi Commonwealth Games.
"I worked with Hari Miles as well amongst others so I've managed to gain invaluable experience over the years."
Wilson is not only involved in boxing, having many projects outside of the sweet science. The 36 year old opened up on what other interesting projects he's involved in outside of boxing.
He said, "I'm having a go at DJ'ing on November 25 at the Eclipse Students Union Bar in Treforest! I've always been into my music so I thought I'd give it a go! It's going to be a great night of entertainment so I'm buzzing to be involved with it!
"I run D and J promotions so we have lots of events on in Cardiff including top class DJ nights, Celebrity Darts nights, just to name a few so that keeps me busy when I'm away from the gym!"